Plans to redevelop a 236-year-old Lancashire pub and build six houses, together with 14 holiday lodges on the site have been submitted to Preston City Council.
PWA Planning is advising local building company J Townley Ltd on the planning application, which aims to breathe fresh life into Ye Horns Inn in Goosnargh.
Built in 1782, the pub is currently closed but plans to reopen later in 2018 subject to the refurbishment and extension work being approved.
The proposals involve extending the barn and connecting building to improve facilities for events and functions, as well as building four cottages on one of the existing car parks. The plans also include the erection of two detached houses and up to 14 holiday lodges on the Horns Lane site.
Ye Horns Inn’s interior was remodelled during the inter-war period between 1918 and 1939 and its distinctive exterior features mock timber with white rendering.
The building was granted a Grade II listing in January 2017, based on its architectural value and the retention of the pub’s interior, which has not changed significantly since the mid-20th century. Its distinctive characteristics have also earned it a listing on the Campaign for Real Ale’s National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors.
However, soon after receiving listed building status, the pub was forced to close, along with its accommodation and micro-brewery due to a downturn in trade.
Tom Townley, director of J Townley Ltd, which acquired the site earlier this year, said: “The plans would result in a number of benefits, including the rejuvenation of a longstanding public house which is not currently trading, and the enhancement of a listed heritage asset through sensitive landscaping and a high standard of design.
“In addition, the proposals would create six much-needed homes, assisting the city council in meeting its housing needs and helping to resolve the shortage of smaller rural homes.”
Josh Hellawell, planner at PWA Planning, added: “The works would provide support for existing businesses and suppliers in the area during construction, while making a long-term contribution to the hospitality and leisure sector of the local economy.
“This is a strong example of how sensitive design can breathe fresh life into a rural economy business, enabling diversification, creating jobs, and safeguarding the future of a treasured historic building.”
